Day recognised in attempts to fight HIV/AIDS

WORLD Condom Day was yesterday and recognition of this day is important in the fight against HIV/AIDS, according to a Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS.
The HIV response in Papua New Guinea is at a critical crossroad.
Efforts over the past decade have slowed the epidemic but increases in new HIV infections continue to grow, requiring a need for a renewed focus on both HIV prevention and treatment.
“Recent data analysis suggests that we have seen a 36 per cent increase in HIV among young people in the 15-24 age range over the past 10 years.
“There are real reasons for concern, yet we have the tools to protect each other and prevent HIV and other sexually transmitted infections from spreading,” the statement said.
Condoms are a critical component in a comprehensive, effective and sustainable approach.
An overwhelming body of evidence supports the fact, as stated by the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS, the World Health Organisation and the United Nations Population Fund, that condoms, when used correctly and consistently, are highly effective in preventing HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
There are both male and female condoms available.
The Government is working hard to ensure its people are able to make choices and protect themselves. For example, since its inception in 1997, the National AIDS Council has coordinated the prevention response to HIV and STI transmissions, including condom promotion and distribution.
Civil society organisations also play a crucial role in reaching out to critical, and sometimes hard-to-reach, communities.
People in PNG also have other choices which they can make to show how they love, care and support each other.